If you think that you can't do much with a tablecloth, think again. Getting creative with your tablecloth placement and usage can have a dramatic visual effect on any dinner, event or banquet. Tablecloths, when used cleverly, make just as big a statement as flowers, centerpieces and the rest of your decor-you just have to be willing to arrange them in ways you haven't necessarily tried before. When you do that, your table settings will get as much acclaim as whatever you put on them.

If you live in a house with kids which is going to guarantee accidents, you’ll want to consider the wipeable tablecloth, as it will save you time and money in the long run. If you are in an environment these accidents are less frequent, then the cost advantage of the cotton tablecloth will be more attractive to you.

For every day use in an eat-in kitchen or informal dining room, cotton tablecloths are an excellent option. Cotton is easy to produce and process, which keeps the price low on most cotton options. Most cotton tablecloths are machine washable, though some tablecloths with multicolored patterns may show some color bleeding after washing. Cotton tablecloths can also be spot cleaned with a damp rag or sponge. In terms of durability, few fabrics compare to long-lasting cotton. Cotton tablecloths are available in a wide range of colors, patterns and sizes which also contribute to their popularity. Though cotton tablecloths can be used outdoors, they can mold or deteriorate after long periods of exposure to extreme weather or moisture.